Edward Fernan

OCALA, FLA. / MADISON-Ed Fernan, age 77, the "I did it My Way Guy", passed away peacefully in the presence of loving family in Ocala, Fla. on Friday, April 15, 2011. He was born on Dec. 5, 1933. Ed was a 1952 graduate of East High School. He served in the Army during the Korean War. Ed worked for 30 years and one hour at Oscar Mayer. He later enjoyed work in real estate sales. Ed was involved in many civic pursuits and became an officer in most. He enjoyed the luxury of winters in Florida, hosting Christmas caroling parties every year, and summers in Wisconsin , where he was most famous for his annual "Real Men" tournaments. His generous spirit was most evident at these contests where he invited not only real men, but everyone from toddlers to grannies to participate in golf, volleyball, bridge, and sheepshead games. Ed loved sports and singing. He often played the organ and sang any place he could, always encouraging others to join. Ed held strong opinions and was happy to engage in debate on most subjects. He is survived by his four wonderful children whom he raised with former wife, Caroline Smith; daughters, Cheryl (Michael) Sullivan of Cottage Grove, and Julie Fernan of Madison; sons, Tim and Dan Fernan of Florida; grandchildren, Kelly (Hans) Noel, Casey Sullivan, Jesika and Justin Kohn, and Nikki Fernan; brothers, Tom (Marlys), Jack, and Jim Fernan; sisters, Elaine Havey, Donna Berg, Roberta (Rawley) Wharton; and Sharon Henry. He was preceded in death by his adored mother, Ann Fernan; brother, Al Fernan; sisters, Corinne Guyer, Patricia Feeney, and Janet Lovick. Friends and family are invited to attend services at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 22, 2011, with Father Kent Schmitt presiding. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park with military rites. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Friday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to HospiceCare, Inc., Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, or Carbone Cancer Center. Among Eds final wishes he wanted to say, " Im proud of my life and the many friends Ive made. Thank you all." Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to HospiceCare, Inc., Leukemia &Lymphoma Society, or Carbone Cancer Center. Cemetery: Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park with military rites. Visitation: Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Friday. Service: Friends and family are invited to attend services at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 22, 2011, with Father Kent Schmitt presiding.